33 Best & Fun Things To Do In Hickory NC (North Carolina)
Are you planning a fun-filled vacation or holiday? Or are you having a challenge with your choice of destination? Worry no more because hickory NC is the perfect place for you.
The best things to do in Hickory, NC, are usually astonishing, and when exploring the beautiful city, you will realize that lots of activities are taking place there.
It is recognized as the economic and cultural center of the catawba river valley. It is known for its fascinating views. It also welcomes more than 1 million visitors annually, making vacations quite interesting.
So today, Vasttourist will fully discuss the 33 fun things to do in Hickory, NC, that we think most deserve your attention.
33 Unique Things To Do In Hickory NC (North Carolina)
#1. Go Shopping at Valley Hill Mall
Valley hills mall is one of the best shopping malls in Hickory, NC. It renders many shopping services, including curbside pickup, over 3800 free parking spaces, eateries, and many more.
Shopping in the valley hill mall is quite fun, and it’s good to be included in the things-to-do list for the vacation period because it has all you need to shop. While shopping in the valley hills mall, don’t forget to visit the lovely gift shop at Spencer valley hills mall, hickory NC.
Address: 1960 US-70, Hickory, NC 28602, United States
#2. Enjoy Golf Course at Putt-Putt Fun Center
Putt-putt fun center is a miniature golf course in Hickory, NC. The putt-putt fun center is quite a fascinating place with signage, lighting, a clubhouse, etc.
One great thing about this fun center is that it has four courses to play at a reasonable cost in case you love to play. For a visit to Hickory, NC, and is a golf lover, the putt-putt fun center will serve you the best.
Address: 533 7th Ave Pl SW, Hickory, NC 28602, United States
#3. Explore Bakers Mountain Park
Baker’s Mountain is one of the best places to visit in Hickory, NC. It is the highest elevation in Catawba County, featuring 1,780 feet. It is such a great and successful place.
Baker’s Mountain is one of the three catawba parks, and it was built on land the committee previously passed over long communication.
Baker’s mountain Park preserves the natural heritage and remains one of the best places for nature in Hickory, NC. It has a lot to offer, with 189 acres of mature chestnut and oak forest and an opportunity for bird watching. In this Park, you can watch how interesting birdlife is, as well as the periodic golden eagle.
This Park was opened in the year 2002. visiting Baker’s mountain of one of the things to do in hickory.
Address: 6680 Bakers Mountain Rd, Hickory, NC 28602, United States
#4. Learn at Catawba Science Center
Catawba Science Centre is a place to learn about educational museums if you are looking for what to do in Hickory, North Carolina. It is technically a children’s museum.
Catawba science center is more than 30,000 square feet of space for visitors to explore natural, physical, and earth science.
Have you been looking for a fun place for children and adults? Catawba Science Centre offers many interactive and educational schools, field trips, summer camps for youths, a preschool science program, homeschool classes, scout camps, tech clubs, and birthday parties.
Catawba science center has salt and freshwater aquarium galleries and a digital planetarium theatre. Add this to your list of things to do in Hickory, NC.
Address: 243 3rd Ave NE, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
#5. AR Workshop Hickory NC
Waw, talking about Ar workshop hickory, owned by a lady named Chrystal Rowe. Ar workshop is a boutique DIY studio that offers an immediate class on fabricating custom, endearing home decor from raw material.
For your beautifully designed home decor, Ar Workshop serves the best. Add this to your list of things to do in Hickory, NC.
Address: 264 Union Square NW Suite 101, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
Since you love the things to do in Hickory, NC, you would also love to check out the things to do in Asheboro (North Carolina), Concord (North Carolina), Fayetteville (North Carolina) and Rocky Mount (North Carolina).
#6. Hickory Aviation Museum
The hickory aviation museum is a museum that enhances the art and science of flying and making aircraft. This museum is dedicated to facts and artifacts of Golden age aviation.
Visiting the hickory aviation museum will give you a clue about how these aircraft came about. I know you will have been wondering how the science of aircraft came about. Explore the hickory aviation museum for a wonderful sight and new knowledge.
Address: 3101 9th Ave Dr NW, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
#7. Hickory Community Theater
Hickory community theatre is one of the outstanding theatres in Hickory, NC. It is a cool and fascinating place that everyone exploring hickory NC should add to their things-to-do list.
This theatre is the best place for fun, where drama, arts, culture, music, etc., are fully displayed. It is a life-transforming theatre. Having fun is their ultimate.
Address: 30 3rd St NW, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
#8. Olde Hickory Taproom
The olde hickory taproom is an independent local restaurant in Hickory, NC. They offer great, quality food featuring American cuisine, locally-brewed beer, a full bar, and many more.
Some of the dinner menu for the olde hickory taproom includes; soups and salads, burgers, signature pizzas, munchies, desserts, and other side items.
There is no doubt about tasty foods with a nice look in the olde hickory taproom. Visit us today and enjoy your meal at a reasonable cost.
Address: 222 Union Square NW, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
#9. Lake Hickory Adventures
Lake Hickory adventures is one of the best things to do in Hickory NC. It offers many cruises, including private charter cruises, public dinner cruises, holiday and specialty cruises, gift cards, boat rentals, fishing charters, and many more.
Lake hickory adventures is fighting a great place to explore with beautiful views. This is where you can celebrate your birthday, special events, wedding ceremonies, dinner, and so many other events.
This cruise is not just amazing for customer service and entertainment; its sights along the lake are amazing. On my first visit to Lake Hickory adventures, I testified, and you, too, need to testify. Enjoy your vacation.
Address: 6707 Limbaugh Ln, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
Planning a road trip around Carolina? Why not check out the best things to do in High Point (North Carolina), Greenville (North Carolina), Florence (South Carolina), and Spartanburg (South Carolina).
#10. Shooter’s Lounge
Shooter’s lounge is one of the best places to enjoy the nightlife. It is an awesome place to shoot pool; you won’t regret exploring it.
Shooters’ lounge offers free pools (for some days), live music, a clubhouse, and special foods and drinks. The best thing about Shooters’ large is its excellent staff. Wow, what a great place to hang out and make new friends. Even just a visit to the shooter’s lounge will make a change.
Address: 2149 N Center St, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
#11. Henry River Mill Village
Hickory’s historic Henry River Mill Village is home to the country’s largest collection of 19th-century mill village homes. Though the town was founded over 100 years ago, it has been continuously preserved and revitalized. It’s well worth a visit for its rich history and beautiful location.
The Henry River Mill Village offers visitors a step back into American and regional history. Visitors can take a tour of this former cotton mill and see for themselves the legacy of western North Carolina mill towns.
Located only a mile south of Hildebran, NC, on I-40, the Henry River Mill Village is only a short drive from Charlotte and Asheville.
Join us for your perfect North Carolina adventure with overnight accommodations, daily tours, and special annual events.
Address: 4255 Henry River Rd, Hickory, NC 28602, United States
#12. Hickory Crawdads / L.P. Frans Stadium
The stadium can seat up to 5,000 people and is home to the Hickory Crawdads. The team has been playing at the stadium for a long time and has won their league title five times since they first took the field.
They’ve also made it to the championship round of Minor League Baseball three times. The stadium is a great place to get together with friends for a game or bring the whole family out to enjoy some of baseball’s history.
The stadium is a great place to get together with friends for a game or bring the whole family out to enjoy some of baseball’s history.
Address: 2500 Clement Blvd NW, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
#13. Geitner-Rotary Park
Rotary Park is a great place to go with the family. It’s a picturesque little spot with a giant tree, benches, and picnic tables perfect for enjoying lunch. If you’re looking for something more active, try the walking trails that meander through the woods.
You can catch glimpses of wildlife here and there and enjoy other natural beauty along the way. There are also outdoor games for kids, like soccer fields, basketball courts, and playgrounds, so it’s fun!
If you’re looking for more than just nature, head to downtown Hickory. The shops are quaint and unique, with everything from antiques to children’s clothing stores, so it would be hard not to find something you love while wandering around town.
Address: 2035 12th St Dr. NW, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
#14. Downtown Hickory Farmers Market
The Downtown Hickory Farmers Market has been operating for 16 years now. It’s a very popular event held every Saturday from 8 am to noon from May through October.
The market features over 50 vendors selling locally-grown produce, farm-fresh eggs, dairy products, baked goods, and more. There is live music to enjoy while you browse through the booths of local artisans.
This is a great way to support your community while getting fresh food! Don’t forget to grab breakfast at one of the many restaurants before hitting the booth (with so many choices, it will be hard to pick just one).
The Downtown Hickory Farmers Market offers a variety of fresh produce and other items, live entertainment, and a children’s play area. The hours vary depending on the season, but it typically runs from 8:00 am to noon on Saturdays.
Address: Union Square NW, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
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#15. Hickory Antiques Mall
The Hickory Antiques Mall is the perfect place for antique lovers. The mall has just over 100 booths, and many of the items are from the late 1800s to the 1940s.
You’ll find items such as furniture, jewelry, and clothing that give insight into what life was like before modern conveniences.
The store also offers a wide range of handcrafted items made by local artisans, including blown glassware and pottery. A visit to this mall will leave you with lasting memories and a lifelong love affair with antiques.
Address: 348 U.S. Hwy 70 SW, Hickory, NC 28602, United States
#16. Kiwanis Park
When you’re looking for a park with two playgrounds, two horseshoe pits, and a dog park, Kiwanis Park is the one for you.
This park features two picnic shelters with tables and grills, two lighted baseball fields, two batting cages, two concession stands, restrooms, and a treehouse.
The Zahra Baker All Children’s Playground and Treehouse at Kiwanis Park are popular destinations in Hickory, North Carolina’s park system. It offers a welcoming play space for people of all ages and abilities, including individuals with disabilities.
In honor of Zahra Baker, this beloved playground provides amenities accommodating to these groups, including wheelchair-accessible ramps and rides, multiple ground-level activities, educational and sensory elements, and inclusive play products.
Address: 805 6th St SE, Hickory, NC 28602, United States
#17. Lowes Foods City Park
Lowes Foods City Park is one of the most popular grocery stores in Hickory, North Carolina. Lowes Foods City Park has been around for over 50 years and was established when Lowes Grocery Company decided to open its newest location in the city.
Not only is it a grocery store, but it also is a warehouse, camper center, garden center, restaurant, and more. There are many reasons why people love Lowes Foods so much.
The Lowes story began when two brothers named Mack and Howard Loxley opened up a small grocery store around 1939 with an initial investment of $30. Fast-forward eight decades later, Lowes now operates nearly 600 grocery stores across 13 states with plans to open another 100 or so in the next few years!
Lowes Foods City Park is located at 1305 East Catawba Ave. Suppose you’re looking for fresh produce, meat, eggs, dairy products, organic food, snacks & drinks. Add this to your list of things to do in Hickory, North Carolina.
Address: 300-326 Main Ave NW, Hickory, NC 28602, United States
#18. Fairbrook Optimist Dog Park
As the largest and only off-leash dog park within a 30-mile radius of Hickory, Fairbrook Optimist Dog Park is a favorite among many locals. This park has all the amenities you could want, with a playground and ample parking for you and your four-legged friend.
If your pup gets thirsty along their romp through the fields or on their way up to the water bowl for a drink, there are even drinking fountains for them to use! And if they need to do their business after all that running around? Well, we have public restrooms with poop bag stations as well!
The owners of this park thought of everything when they designed it with safety and enjoyment in mind. So what are you waiting for? Make plans to visit Fairbrook Optimist Dog Park soon so you and your furry best friend can enjoy quality time together.
Address: 1560 4th Ave SE, Hickory, NC 28602, United States
#19. Hickory Furniture Mart
Hickory Furniture Mart offers the ultimate furniture shopping experience. They offer a wide selection of furniture from numerous manufacturers, designers, and expert craftsmen. You’ll also find furniture for every room in your home at affordable prices.
Plus, they are open six days a week and provide discounted packages for travelers who want to stay at our pet-friendly partner hotels. See why Hickory Furniture Mart is one of the world’s most popular furniture destinations.
With access to thousands of exclusive resources, including styles from our fine-handcrafted furniture and exquisite hand-knotted antique, semi-antique, and new rugs from all over the world, they are with you every step when it comes time to furnish your home.
Hickory Furniture Mart has an excellent selection of furniture, and we’re waiting to help make your shopping experience delightful. Whether you’re building from the ground up, remodeling your current home, or have just purchased a new home. They can help!
Address: 2220 US Hwy 70 SE, Hickory, NC 28602, United States
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#20. Nocturne Adventures
If you’re looking for a great adventure in Hickory, NC, look no further! Nocturne Adventures has everything you need. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or want to take the family out on an exciting day trip, we have something for everyone.
Nocturne Adventures is a family owned and operated business. Founded by Nicole and Tom Watson, the combined experience of 10 years in the funeral service industry, 13 years at Blizzard Entertainment, over 20 years of haunted house design, and a love for all things spooky has led to our obsession with escape rooms.
They offer both guided and self-guided tours so you can enjoy your adventure at your own pace. If you have questions about which tour is right for your group or what to expect on tour, they are more than happy to answer them!
They also offer private events so you can plan the perfect outing with friends and family. This is one of the best-hidden gems in Hickory, NC, for horror fans.
It’s not a huge business, but don’t let that fool you; it does well. This could just be the most immersive and thrilling experience you’ve ever encountered. I can’t say enough good things about the staff or the whole experience.
Address: 3363 48th Ave Ln NE, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
#21. Union Square
Union Square is a neighborhood in Hickory, North Carolina. It is the most densely populated area of the city and is home to many stores and restaurants.
Union Square was established in the late 1800s when four railroad lines converged in a remote, central location. Union Square has something for everyone. Families will enjoy the play areas in front of some business buildings. Parents can also find daycare providers close to work or school in Union Square.
For those who want to hit the town with friends, there are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants in this neighborhood with live music on occasion. There is also a theater called The Arts Centre which features live music concerts and Broadway Plays.
The last thing you should know about Union Square is that it’s home to many historic buildings from all eras–from churches built around 1900 to apartment buildings from the 1940 to-1960s.
Address: Hickory, NC 28601, USA
#22. Maple Grove
Maple Grove is a quiet residential neighborhood in Hickory, established in the late 1990s. Maple Grove has seen an increase in population over the past five years, leading to more children wanting to reside in this area.
The residents of Maple Grove are very welcoming and come together on many occasions for community events. There are also many parks, restaurants, churches, and shopping malls within a few minutes of driving.
If you’re looking for a nice family-oriented area with plenty of parks and activities, then Maple Grove is the place for you!
Address: North Carolina 28611, USA
#23. Shuford’s House & Garden
Shuford’s House & Garden is a restored 18th-century plantation home in Hickory, North Carolina. The historic house has been meticulously renovated to its original grandeur while modern touches have been added for your comfort.
It’s available for rent for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations. Learn more about the beautiful historic house!
Address: 534 3rd Ave NW, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
#24. River’s Edge Marina
River’s Edge Marina is a top choice for those who enjoy water sports. It features boat slips, rentals, and dock space for 200 boats. River’s Edge Marina has room to keep your boat or jet ski safe and secure all year.
They offer seasonal storage for boats under 60ft in length. If you’re interested in making River’s Edge Marina your destination, give them a call today!
Address: 5803 Icard Ridge Rd, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
#25. Lake Hickory Haunts
You don’t have to go far from home to experience the thrill of a haunted attraction. Hickory, North Carolina, has some of the best!
Lake Hickory Haunts is a multi-level, excitement-packed haunted house that features a variety of monsters and creatures. You’ll experience a family-friendly attraction with a few scares for all ages.
Many shows go on each night, so you can get your scare no matter when you visit. Wicked Warehouse is an indoor attraction on multiple floors with a family area. There are scenes from horror movies recreated in 3D in the adults-only section.
Lake Hickory Haunts is not just one of the best attractions in North Carolina but also one of the best outdoor attractions in America!
If you want to experience terror at its finest, come to Hickory, NC, and visit Lake Hickory Haunts!
Address: 520 Carolina Ave, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
#26. Custom Therapy Massage
Massage therapy is a great way to reduce stress and pain and improve circulation and range of motion. Massage can also be an exhilarating experience.
A custom massage from a licensed therapist offers the benefits of a deep-tissue massage without the discomfort that often accompanies it. An adequately administered deep-tissue massage will relieve sore muscles, reduce chronic pain, and ease tension in the body.
The pressure used during a deep-tissue massage may feel uncomfortable at first but eventually leads to a sense of relief. The therapist breaks down muscle tension and restores balance to the body’s natural alignment by working out kinks in the muscle fibers.
If you’re looking for that perfect “me time” or need some profound relief from chronic pain, request a custom massage from Hickory, North Carolina’s most reputable therapists!
Address: 2221 N Center St, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
#27. Springs Road Gun club
The Springs Road Gun Club is a recreational shooting club located in Hickory, North Carolina. The facility has a full sport range and a new, state-of-the-art trap and skeet field.
They also have a new 20-field archery course and playing fields for soccer, football, and baseball. The Springs Road Gun Club has something for everyone. Those participating in shooting sports offer many opportunities through various leagues and tournaments.
When you’re not competing, the clubhouse offers private meeting rooms with catering options and ample parking for your guests.
Address: 3462 Springs Rd NE, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
#28. McGuire’s Pub
McGuire’s Pub is an upscale Irish pub that offers a variety of American and Irish dishes, including their signature Shepherd’s Pie. More than just food, they offer live entertainment, trivia nights, and other fun activities to keep you entertained.
McGuire’s Pub has been in Hickory, North Carolina, for over 20 years. They are committed to providing excellent customer service to their guests every time they visit the restaurant.
They offer events throughout the week to keep things fresh. McGuire’s Pub offers quality food and lives music at reasonable prices.
Cheers!
Address: 46 3rd St NW, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
#29. Players Ridge Golf Club
Players Ridge Golf Club is a public golf course in Hickory, North Carolina. It features 27 holes of championship golf with some of the most scenic views in the region.
In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Players Ridge offers a variety of amenities and services for players who want to make their golf experience as enjoyable as possible.
These amenities include a driving range, greens, a pro shop, and a restaurant.
Address: 1157 Players Ridge Rd, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
#30. Hampton Heights Golf Course
If you’re interested in golfing, then Hampton Heights Golf Course is the place to go. Not only is it a beautiful golf course with scenic views, but it also offers the perfect experience for the whole family.
The clubhouse has a restaurant with good food and drinks available for purchase, as well as a pro shop where you can find all of your golfing needs.
It also has an on-site pro who will give you lessons and hire out their equipment if you don’t have any of your own. So what are you waiting for? Come on down to Hampton Heights Golf Course today!
Address: 1700 5th St NE, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
#31. Harris Arcade Speciality Shops
The Harris Arcade in downtown Hickory is a historic building that has been revitalized to serve as an anchor for the downtown community.
The arcade houses many of the town’s specialty shops, including some new and unique to the area.
If you’re looking for a shopping experience like no other, visit the Harris Arcade on your next visit to Hickory.
Address: 221 Trade Alley, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
#32. Lake Hickory Trails
Lake Hickory Trails is a residential community designed for living in its own home without worrying about yard work or maintenance.
Located on Lake Hickory in western North Carolina, it’s convenient to all the areas you want to visit without being too far from home.
#33. Rens Dog Den
Rens Dog Den is a low-cost, no-kill dog shelter in North Carolina with an open-door policy. They are dedicated to providing dogs with their own space and the time they need to find their way to their forever homes.
At Rens Dog Den, they believe that every dog deserves its own safe space. That’s why dogs have plenty of room for play, exercise, and free-roaming.
Their shelter is also home to adoptable dogs with special needs that most shelters would otherwise overlook.
Address: 843 Highland Ave NE, Hickory, NC 28601, United States
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Plan Your Trip in Hickory, North Carolina
Hickory, North Carolina, is widely known for its furniture making, textile manufacturing, fiber optic cable, hosiery, foam, springs, and mattresses.
It is home to tourists with a wide range of beaches, parks, and lots of sightseeing. It is a popular recreational area and a fun place to be.
These 33 things to do in Hickory, NC, will make it a great vacation for an unforgettable trip.
Enjoy your trip!!!
